It’s been a few weeks since the Global Climate Strike on September 27, 2019. Although it is a cause that I strongly believe in, I was debating whether or not to join the march in Vancouver as I’m not a fan of large crowds. I decided to go last minute, and I’m very glad that I went. I biked down to City Hall with my camera in hand, delegating myself a duty to help capture moments at the Climate Strike.
It was very inspiring to see so many people caring about the state of our environment. There were some pretty great signs. One of my favourites read “So bad even the introverts are here!”
However, I wondered how many people will take additional steps to do their part for Mother Earth, or if partaking in a protest the extent to some people’s environmental activism. So, I challenge you to think about a few ways, no matter how small, that you will contribute to help reduce your ecological footprint.
Here are some of my personal goals:
1. Become a “Conscious Carnivore”.
I’ve always been a meat-eater, and I probably always will be. My meat-eating diet greatly contradicts my beliefs as an animal-lover and someone who is environmentally conscious. However, there are ways to become more conscious of my meat consumption without becoming a vegetarian.
My goal is to eat less meat. I’ll start with two vegetarian meals a week, replacing my protein with chickpeas, quinoa and free-range eggs. Secondly, when I do buy meat, I want to buy ethically. If anyone has a good source of a butcher that serves local, quality products (and the animals lived a happy life) in Vancouver, please let me know!
2. Buy less stuff!
I used to think that donating my old clothing and other items justifies buying new things. However, I never thought about all the clothing that doesn’t get bought in a thrift store. This episode of CBC Marketplace really brought to my attention the issue of clothing waste and just waste in general.
The last couple of years, I’ve made an effort to buy things second-hand. Additionally, I often use the trading app Bunz. It’s a great way to make sure my old items are getting a second, or third, or even fourth life – plus sometimes you can get a pretty good deal as well!
My goal this year: I aim buy no more than 3 new clothing items, and only buy other items if I absolutely need it.
3. Sign up for David Suzuki Foundation’s Queen of Green newsletter.
This one’s an easy one. This monthly digest will provide recipes, how-tos and tips to living “zero-waste”. I’m excited to receive my first newsletter!
These are pretty small contributions, but I hope this inspires you to think about ways that you can reduce your ecological footprint. I’d love to hear your goals on being more green. Please share below!
